Samurai Shodown III: Blades of Blood
Samurai Shodown III: Blades of Blood is a 1995 weapon-based fighting game developed and published by SNK for the Neo Geo arcade system. This radical reinvention of the series introduced a branching storyline, stance-based combat, and the revolutionary 'Rage Slash' system that dramatically altered gameplay dynamics.
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About This Game
The game features 14 characters including alternate versions of series staples - 'Slash' (technical) and 'Bust' (powerful) variations with different move sets. Newcomers like Gaira Caffeine and Zankuro Minazuki bring fresh weapon styles to the roster.
Major mechanical changes include the Rage Slash gauge (allowing instant max power attacks), stance switching between offensive/defensive modes, and terrain-based damage modifiers. The Neo Geo hardware delivers fluid animations with dynamic weather effects in stages.
Though controversial for its drastic changes, Samurai Shodown III is praised for its ambitious redesign and technical achievements. It remains a cult favorite for its high-risk combat system and multiple story outcomes based on player choices.
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